O’Malley, considered a possible presidential contender, sent out an email today blasting Christie for his opposition to gay marriage and asking supporters to donate money to Buono’s cash-strapped campaign. “Christie vetoed a marriage equality bill last year, denying thousands of New Jerseyans equality,” O’Malley said in the letter. “We have a chance to defeat him and make real progress, but we need you today.”

One Governor risked his political capital to help bring equality to his state. The other does everything with an eye to protecting his own political life.